a glitch in the system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a glitch in the system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor malfunction or error within a technological system or process. Example: "We experienced a glitch in the system that caused the software to crash unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

We treated it like a glitch in the system, almost a mistake.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was not a glitch in the system; it was the system.

The Guardian

She tells Anderton of a glitch in the system; the Pre-Cogs collectively are never wrong, but they do "disagree".

The New York Times

I was initially unable to check in online, prior to departure and on calling the helpline was told there was a glitch in the system.

The Guardian - Money

"I don't know if there was a glitch in the system, whether it was transferred from one call center to the other".

The New York Times

The chance of your ballot not being counted due to a glitch in the system, we now know, depends on where you live and what form of voting technology your local government deems it can afford.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It has come to our attention that a glitch in the enrollment system MAY still allow students to bypass reserve requirements and jump the wait list for classes.

University of California, Berkeley

A glitch in the IT system for WHSmith's subscriptions service has seen dozens of people's personal data distributed to other customers via email.

Independent

Toyota said Tuesday that it would recall 436,000 units of the 2010 Prius and other hybrid models worldwide because of a glitch in the braking system, a move that adds to the growing crisis at the Japanese automaker.

The New York Times

The reason we had some challenges with the medical waste was that it was the first time we had to deal that situation, and just by chance there had been a glitch in the government system to approve a waste removal company to do that.

The Guardian

The inquest also heard that when Anderson learned that a bench warrant had been issued against him for being in contempt of court, he exploited a "glitch" in the legal system that meant he no longer had to report to police for bail, enabling him to avoid arrest.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a glitch in the system", ensure the context clearly defines what 'system' refers to, whether it's a software program, a bureaucratic process, or a mechanical device. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a glitch in the system" when a more precise term would be more appropriate. Instead of vaguely attributing problems to a 'glitch', identify the specific cause, like a 'software bug' or 'hardware malfunction'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a glitch in the system" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific instance of malfunction or error. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a glitch in the system" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a minor malfunction or error affecting a process, mechanism, or technological system. Ludwig AI validates its wide applicability across diverse sources, including news, media, and technical documentation. While versatile, it's important to use this phrase precisely, ensuring the context clarifies what 'system' refers to. Alternatives like "a system malfunction" or "a technical fault" may offer greater specificity when needed. Overusing the term in vague contexts should be avoided to maintain clarity in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a system malfunction

Focuses more on the system failing to operate correctly, rather than a specific error.

a system error

Highlights the incorrect functioning of the system, less emphasis on the unexpected nature.

a system fault

Emphasizes the responsibility for the system failing, adding a nuance of blame.

a technical fault

Specifies that the glitch is of a technical nature, excluding non-technical systems.

a technical error

Specifies that the error is of a technical nature, excluding non-technical systems.

an operational defect

Implies an issue with how something operates, not necessarily a sudden malfunction.

an anomaly in the process

Broader term, covering any deviation from the expected process, not just malfunctions.

a defect in the mechanism

Emphasizes a flaw in the mechanical parts of the system, not in the software or procedures.

a software bug

More specific term for an error in software, doesn't apply to other systems.

an unexpected hiccup

Less formal, implying a very minor and temporary issue.

FAQs

What does "a glitch in the system" mean?

The phrase "a glitch in the system" refers to a minor malfunction, error, or unexpected problem within a process, mechanism, or technological system. It suggests a temporary or small-scale issue that disrupts normal operation.

How can I use "a glitch in the system" in a sentence?

You can use "a glitch in the system" to describe a problem in various contexts. For example, "The delayed flight was due to "a glitch in the system"" or "We encountered "a glitch in the system" during the software update".

What can I say instead of "a glitch in the system"?

Alternatives to "a glitch in the system" include "a system malfunction", "a system error", or "a technical fault". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nature of the problem.

Is "a glitch in the system" formal or informal?

"A glitch in the system" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both informal and professional contexts. However, in highly formal or technical writing, a more precise term like "system error" or "technical malfunction" may be preferred.